User customizable plate handling for MALDI mass spectrometry

ABSTRACT

Methods for specifying the layout of a MALDI sample plate are provided. In general, the methods involve creating a file containing sample plate layout parameters that describe the layout of a MALDI sample plate, and storing the file on a computer readable medium prior to placement of the MALDI sample plate into a MALDI ion source. In many embodiments, the file includes information about the size or shape of the sample plate, or information about the size, shape or position of a sample on the sample plate. In many embodiments, a MALDI sample plate is placed in a MALDI ion source and a stored layout file for the sample plate is accessed and used to position an area of the sample plate in a laser beam. The subject methods, kits and apparatus find use in a variety of different mass spectrometry applications.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to methods and systems for performingMALDI mass spectrometry.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

During the past decade, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization(MALDI) has proven to be a valuable tool in the analysis of a variety ofmolecules, e.g., biomolecules such as proteins and other organicmolecules, and has application in a wide variety of fields such asgenomics and proteomics. In many cases, MALDI ion sources are integratedwith an analytical device, e.g., a mass spectrometer, for studying theMALDI ionized analyte. Mass spectrometers are instruments that measureand analyze ions by their mass and charge. For the most part,time-of-flight mass spectrometers (“TOF-MS”) are used for this purpose,but other mass spectrometers may be used as well, such as an ioncyclotron resonance spectrometer (e.g., a Fourier transform ioncyclotron mass resonance spectrometer), ion trap mass spectrometers(e.g., a high-frequency quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer), andhybrid instruments (e.g., a quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometer,QqTOF).

Generally, MALDI ion sources vaporize and ionize non-volatile biologicalanalytes from a solid phase directly into a gaseous phase. To accomplishthis, analytes are suspended or dissolved in a matrix of generally asmall organic compound which co-crystallizes with the analyte. A samplecontaining the analyte/matrix mixture is applied to a suitable support,e.g., a sample plate, which is then loaded into an ion source forperforming MALDI. It is thought that the presence of the matrix enablesthe analyte to be ionized without being degraded, solving a problem ofother methods. Accordingly, MALDI enables the detection of intactmolecules as large as 1,000 kDaltons, and is particularly suitable forthe analysis of biological samples such as proteins, peptides, andnucleic acids, which may range in size from 1 kDa to about 1000 kDa.

A laser beam serves as the desorption and ionization source in MALDI.Once a sample is loaded into the MALDI ion source, a laser is used tovaporize the analyte. In the vaporization process, the matrix in thesample absorbs some of the laser light energy causing part of theilluminated matrix to vaporize. The resultant vapor cloud of matrixcarries some of the analyte with it so that the analyte may be analyzed.The matrix molecules absorb most of the incident laser energy, thusminimizing analyte damage and ion fragmentation. Samples may be ionizedby a MALDI ion source at atmospheric pressure (AP) or in a vacuum.

Once the molecules of the analyte are vaporized and ionized, they areusually analyzed. As mentioned above, this may be accomplished by theuse of a mass spectrometer. Accordingly, the vaporized ions aretransferred electrostatically and/or pneumatically into a mass analyzer,for example a TOF-MS flight tube, where they are separated. Followingseparation of the ions, they are then directed to a detector so that theions are individually detected. Depending on the nature of the analyzerand how it separates the ions, mass spectrometers fall into differentcategories. In the case of a TOF-MS for example, separation anddetection is based on the mass-to-charge (m/z) ratios of the ions. InTOF-MS, detection of the ions at the end of the time-of-flight tube isbased on their flight times, which are proportional to the square rootof their m/z.

As such, in general, MALDI involves the generation of ions from analytesin a sample, first by embedding the analytes into a matrix to formcrystals and then irradiating the analytes with a laser beam, usually aUV light beam, generated by a suitable laser.

In response to the ever increasing interest in the application of MALDIto a wide range of analytical problems, MALDI sample plate formats,including the size and geometry of the plates themselves and the sizes,geometries and positioning of spots within the plates, areever-changing. For example, in order to increase detection limits, theconcentration of a given analyte in a sample may be increased bydecreasing the volume of a sample. Spotting samples of smaller volumesonto a MALDI sample plate leads to a sample plate with smaller spots.Also, as more and more samples are analyzed, samples are spotted ontosample plates at higher densities. In fact, in many MALDI methods, asample plate must be in a high vacuum before ionization is performed.Since a high vacuum takes a significant amount of time to establish in aMALDI ion source, the throughput of such a MALDI ion source is typicallyproportional to the density of samples spotted on a sample plate. Also,in addition to the ever-changing densities and sizes of spots on asample plate, sample plates are variable in their size and geometries,and individual samples may vary in their size, shape and position on asingle sample plate.

Current MALDI ion sources typically accommodate little variability ofsample plate format, and are usually pre-set to ionize samples from asingle MALDI plate type, e.g. a single sample plate, a 24-sample plate,or a 96-sample plate.

Accordingly, a need exists for MALDI sources and methods thataccommodate sample plates of different sizes and geometries, and samplesof variable sizes, shapes and positions on a sample plate. Of particularinterest are methods and apparatus that allow a user to configure aMALDI ion source to ionize a sample at a particular position on a sampleplate. The present invention meets this, and other, needs.

RELEVANT LITERATURE

United States patents of interest include: U.S. Pat. Nos. RE37,485;5,498,545; 6,027,942; 5,861,623; 5,821,063; 5,808,300; 5,969,350;6,488,065; 6,353,423; 6,221,626; 5,827,659 and 5,860,240; published U.S.Patent application of interests include: 20020094533; 20020011562;20020123153; 20020011561 and 20020158027; other literature of interestincludes: the product literature of the Profiler mass spectrometer foundat the world wide website of SRSmaldi.com atsrsmaldi.com/Profiler/Prof_Soft.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Methods for specifying the layout of a MALDI sample plate are provided.In general, the methods involve creating a file containing sample platelayout parameters that describe the layout of a MALDI sample plate, andstoring the file on a computer readable medium prior to placement of theMALDI sample plate into a MALDI ion source. In many embodiments, thefile includes information about the size or shape of the sample plate,or information about the size, shape or position of a sample on thesample plate. In many embodiments, a MALDI sample plate is placed in aMALDI ion source and a stored layout file for the sample plate isaccessed and used to position an area of the sample plate in the laserbeam. The subject methods and apparatus find use in a variety ofdifferent mass spectrometry applications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates exemplary MALDI sample plates for whichsample plate layout parameter files may be made using the subjectmethods.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 3A and 3B schematically illustrate two exemplary sample plates,one rectangular (FIG. 3A) and one circular (FIG. 3B), containing typesof linearly extended sample.

FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C show exemplary embodiments of a sample clip for usewith a sample holder in a subject MALDI ion source.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary image of a sample plate, as viewed through agraphical user interface for creating a MALDI sample plate layout file.The perimeter of the sample plate, shown on a black background, isdemarcated using white spots placed by a cursor. The perimeters ofsamples is also marked using black circles that are also placed using acursor. A sample perimeter that has been drawn and is in the process ofbeing moved over a sample is shown using a broken line circle.

DEFINITIONS

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs. Still, certain elements aredefined below for the sake of clarity and ease of reference.

The term “computer readable medium” as used herein refers to any storageor transmission medium that participates in providing instructionsand/or data to a computer for execution and/or processing. Examples ofstorage media include floppy disks, magnetic tape, CD-ROM, a hard diskdrive, a ROM or integrated circuit, a magneto-optical disk, or acomputer readable card such as a PCMCIA card and the like, whether ornot such devices are internal or external to the computer. A filecontaining information may be “stored” on computer readable medium,where “storing” means recording information such that it is accessibleand retrievable at a later date by a computer.

With respect to computer readable media, “permanent memory” refers tomemory that is permanent. Permanent memory is not erased by terminationof the electrical supply to a computer or processor. Computer hard-driveROM (i.e. ROM not used as virtual memory), CD-ROM, floppy disk and DVDare all examples of permanent memory. Random Access Memory (RAM) is anexample of non-permanent memory. A file in permanent memory may beeditable and re-writable.

In certain embodiments of the invention, stored files may be created oredited by “entering text”. Text may be entered using any known method,including typing text (e.g., using a keyboard or mouse or copy andpasting) into a user interface displaying a file, typing text directlyinto a file, or importing text from a spreadsheet, etc.

Subject computer readable media may be at a “remote location”, where“remote location,” means a location other than the location at which theMALDI ionization and detection apparatus. For example, a remote locationcould be another location (e.g., office, lab, etc.) in the same city,another location in a different city, another location in a differentstate, another location in a different country, etc. As such, when oneitem is indicated as being “remote” from another, what is meant is thatthe two items may be in the same room but separated, or at least indifferent rooms or different buildings, and may be at least one mile,ten miles, or at least one hundred miles apart. “Communicating”information references transmitting the data representing thatinformation as electrical signals over a suitable communication channel(e.g., a private or public network). “Forwarding” an item refers to anymeans of getting that item from one location to the next, whether byphysically transporting that item or otherwise (where that is possible)and includes, at least in the case of data, physically transporting amedium carrying the data or communicating the data. Examples ofcommunicating media include radio or infra-red transmission channels aswell as a network connection to another computer or networked device,and the Internet or Intranets including email transmissions andinformation recorded on websites and the like.

The term “using” is used herein as it is conventionally used, and, assuch, means employing, e.g. putting into service, a method orcomposition to attain an end. For example, if a program is used tocreate a file, a program is executed to make a file, the file usuallybeing the output of the program. In another example, if a sample platelayout file is used, it is usually accessed, read, and the informationstored in the file employed to attain an end. Similarly if a uniqueidentifier, e.g. a barcode is used, the unique identifier is usuallyread to identify, for example, an object or file associated with theunique identifier.

A unique identifier is a unique code (e.g. a number) that is“associated” with an object or file. If a unique identifier isassociated with an object, the object is usually labeled with the uniqueidentifier. For example, the unique identifier may be written on anobject, or the unique identifier may be contained on a the surface of alabel (e.g., a paper or plastic label) which is adhered to the object.In certain embodiments, the unique identifier is a barcode, and thebarcode, as is known in the art, is usually present on the surface of alabel that is adhered to the object. As is known in the art, there areseveral ways of associating a file with a unique identifier. Forexample, the file may be named with the unique identifier, the file maycontain the unique identifier embedded in the file, e.g., as a fileheader, or the file may have a file path that is unique to the file, andthe file path uniquely indicates the file.

The term “sample” refers to a sample derived from a variety of sourcessuch as from foodstuffs, environmental materials, a biological sample orsolid, such as tissue or fluid isolated from an individual organism,including, but not limited to, for example, plasma, serum, spinal fluid,semen, lymph fluid, the external sections of the skin, respiratory,intestinal, and genitourinary tracts, tears, saliva, milk, blood cells,tumors, organs, and also samples of in vitro cell culture constituents(including, but not limited to, conditioned medium resulting from thegrowth of cells in cell culture medium, putatively virally infectedcells, recombinant cells, and cell components). A sample may containproteins, peptides, lipids, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, or otherorganic or inorganic molecules, such as other biopolymers or polymers.In many embodiments, sample is complexed with a matrix suitable forMALDI. Samples at concentrations of 10 fM or more are consideredconcentration samples, whereas samples at concentrations of less than 10fM (e.g. less than about 1 fM, less than about 0.1 fM, less than about10 aM or less than about 1 aM) are considered low concentration samples.

A sample on a sample plate exists within a sample perimeter, where thesample perimeter delineates the edge of the sample on a sample plate. Atcertain positions within sample perimeter, crystals containing a mixtureof sample and matrix suitable for MALDI are formed.

The term “analyte” refers to a known or unknown molecule in a sample,which will be ionized by a MALDI ion source. In general, the targetmolecule may be a biopolymer, i.e., an oligomer or polymer such as anoligonucleotide, a peptide, a polypeptide, a protein, and antibody, orthe like.

A “sample plate” is a plate of samples suitable for use with a MALDI ionsource. In most embodiments, a sample plate is loaded into a MALDI ionsource for ionization of the samples. A sample plate can be of anyshape, e.g., circular, square, rectangular, oval, etc.

A sample at an “arbitrary position” on a sample plate is a sample thatis at any position on the sample plate. Samples that are at arbitrarypositions on a sample plate may be non-consecutive samples, and they maynot be arranged in any order or shape. Samples that are ionized usingthe subject methods may be ionized arbitrarily in that the samples areionized is not in any particular order. In other words, samples that areionized using the subject methods may be arbitrarily chosen.

A “sample plate layout parameter” describes the configuration of a platein terms of the size or shape of the plate, or the size, shape andpositioning of at least one sample on the plate. In general, two typesof sample plate parameters exist: sample plate geometry parameters (i.e.the size or shape of a sample plate) or sample feature parameters (i.e.the size, shape or position of a feature, e.g., a sample spot on thesample plate).

A “sample plate geometry parameter” may indicate the shape of the sampleplate, e.g. circular, square, rectangular, oval, shapes, etc., and mayindicate the dimensions of the shape using any convenient measurementunits (m, motor step units, etc.). A sample plate geometry may beparameterized mathematically, e.g. using a formula that describes thesize and shape of a plate.

A “sample feature parameter” may indicate the shape of a sample, e.g.circular, square, rectangular, oval, elongated circle, etc., mayindicate the dimensions of the shape using any convenient measurementunits (m, motor step units, etc.), and may indicate the position of thesample on the sample plate (for example as a vector in relation to adefined position on a sample plate). A sample feature may also beparameterized mathematically, e.g. using a formula that describes thesize, shape or position of a sample on a plate. As such, sample featureparameters may be used to indicate information about samples that arecomplex in shape, such as an elongated sample (e.g., an elongated shapeformed by the continuous deposit of a liquid sample on a movingsubstrate).

The term “ion” is used in its conventional sense to refer to a chargedatom or molecule, i.e., an atom or molecule that contains an unequalnumber of protons and electrons. Positive ions contain more protons thanelectrons, and negative ions contain more electrons than protons. An ionof the present invention can be singly charged, or it may have amultiple charge.

The term “detector” refers to any device, apparatus, machine, componentor system that can detect an ion. Detectors may or may not includehardware and software.

A “MALDI ion source” is part of a MALDI system and contains a sampleplate holder and laser. In certain embodiments, a MALDI ion sourceincludes a chamber in which a MALDI sample plate is illuminated with alaser beam in order to effect ionization of a sample on the sampleplate. A chamber, if present, may be at atmospheric pressure or atvacuum. A MALDI ion source may also include robotic equipment and aprocessor for plate handling, sample plate holder positioning, lasercontrol and optical adjustments. Ionization of a sample occurs in aMALDI ion source. Atmospheric (AP) and vacuum MALDI ion sources aretypes of MALDI ion sources.

A “MALDI system” contains a MALDI ion source integrated with an iondetection and measurement system such as a mass spectrometer, and,usually, a data processing system. If a mass spectrometer is present,the system usually includes a vacuum system. MALDI ion source controlmay be performed with the data processing and control system of the massspectrometer, or processors that are separate but linked incommunication.

A “laser beam” refers to focused radiation that may be ultraviolet,visible, or infrared light. If an object is “in the path” of a laserbeam or “in a laser beam”, it is at a position that is illuminated bythe radiation when the radiation is present. If an object is in theintended path of a laser beam, it is also “in the path” of the laserbeam.

When a first object is moved “relative to” a second item, or the“relative position” of two items is adjusted, the first object may bemoved in related to a second object in a fixed position or the secondobject may be moved in relation to the object item in a fixed position.Alternatively, a first object may be moved “relative to” a second objectby moving both objects. For example, an area on a sample plate may bemoved relative to the laser beam by adjusting the path of the laserbeam, by moving the sample plate, or by moving both the laser beam andthe sample plate.

A “reference point” of an object is a position of a part of the object(e.g. a MALDI ion source, a MALDI sample plate, etc.) relative to whichother positions or distances the object can be measured. In certainembodiments, an object has a single fixed reference point. Any positionwithin an object may be used as a reference point.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Methods for specifying the layout of a MALDI sample plate are provided.In general, the methods involve creating a file containing sample platelayout parameters that describe the layout of a MALDI sample plate, andstoring the file on a computer readable medium prior to placement of theMALDI sample plate into a MALDI ion source. In many embodiments, thefile includes information about the size or shape of the sample plate,or information about the size, shape or position of a sample on thesample plate. In many embodiments, a MALDI sample plate is placed in aMALDI ion source and a stored layout file for the sample plate isaccessed and used to position an area of the sample plate in a laserbeam. The subject methods and apparatus find use in a variety ofdifferent mass spectrometry applications.

Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recitedevents which is logically possible, as well as the recited order ofevents. Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it isunderstood that every intervening value, between the upper and lowerlimit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in thatstated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, it iscontemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variationsdescribed may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combinationwith any one or more of the features described herein.

The referenced items are provided solely for their disclosure prior tothe filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to beconstrued as an admission that the present invention is not entitled toantedate such material by virtue of prior invention.

Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there areplural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein andin the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said” and “the”include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude anyoptional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve asantecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,”“only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements,or use of a “negative” limitation.

In further describing the invention in greater detail than provided inthe Summary and as informed by the Background and Definitions providedabove, process or program aspects of the invention are first described.This discussion is followed by a description of suitable hardware foruse in the invention and potential use in molecular mass spectrometry.

Methodology/Programming

The subject invention provides methods for specifying the layout of aMALDI sample plate. In general, the methods involve creating and storinga file containing layout parameters for a sample plate on a computerreadable medium prior to placement of the sample plate in a MALDI ionsource. More specifically, the subject invention provides a file oflayout parameters for a sample plate, such as the geometry of a sampleplate, or the size, shape and positions of samples on the sample plates,that is created and stored prior to placement of the correspondingsample plate in a MALDI ion source. Once a sample plate is placed in aMALDI ion source, a stored corresponding layout file is accessed for thesample plate, and a laser beam is positioned with respect to an area(e.g. a sample) on the sample plate using the parameters provided in thelayout file. Positioning the laser beam with respect to the sample platemay be accomplished by any means, for example by moving the sample platein relation to a laser beam at a fixed position, moving a laser beam inrelation to a sample plate at a fixed position (e.g., by using mirrors,lenses, etc), or by moving the sample plate and the laser beam such thata particular area of the sample plate is positioned in the laser beam.In certain embodiments, once positioned, a laser beam may be fired at asample to effect ionization of the sample. These above described methodsmay be used in combination with other methods to direct a laser beam toa particular position within a sample for ionization.

The subject methods therefore find use in specifying the layout of aMALDI sample plate prior to analysis of samples on the plate in a MALDIsystem, and allow the use of sample plates with a variety differentlayouts on a single MALDI system. In certain embodiments, the subjectmethods may be used to position a laser beam with respect to samples atany arbitrary positions on the sample plate. In certain embodiments, thesample plate layout file is chosen from a database of sample platelayout files, and in some embodiments this selection is performedautomatically using a unique identifier, such as a barcode, associatedwith a sample plate.

As such, in many embodiments, the subject methods involve accessing astored sample plate layout parameter file, positioning a sample platewith respect to a laser beam according to the parameters stored in thefile, and ionizing a sample with the laser beam. In certain embodiments,after the sample is ionized, the ions are detected using, for example, atime of flight mass analyzer or another ion detector.

Also provided are methods for automated ionization of samples on asample plate. After ionization of a first sample on a sample plate usingthe stored sample plate layout file, a second sample on the sample platemay be ionized using the same sample plate layout file.

In further describing the invention, sample plate layout files aredescribed first, followed by a description of methods for specifying thelayout of a sample plate, and a description of representative methods ofpositioning a laser beam with respect to an area of a sample plate usinga stored file of sample plate layout parameters.

Sample Plate Layout Parameter Files

A sample plate layout parameter file contains information regarding thesize and/or shape of a sample plate, and/or information about the size,shape and/or position of at least one sample on the sample plate.

In general, the sample plate parameter layout file is created and storedon computer readable media before a sample plate is placed in a MALDIion source. In one embodiment, the sample plate layout parametersdescribe sample plate geometry and at least one sample on the plate. AMALDI ion source, upon accessing the parameters, may move a MALDI sampleplate relative to a laser beam such that the laser beam, when fired, isdirected to an area of interest, e.g., at least a portion of a sample,on the plate.

Sample plate layout parameters for an individual sample plate areusually stored as a file on a computer readable medium. A sample platelayout parameter file may be stored in any convenient format, usually asa text file such as a tab or comma delimited text file, an ASCII file,an extensible markup language (XML) file, or the like, such that it isreadable and useable for positioning a sample plate in a MALDI ionsource in relation to a laser beam. A sample plate layout parameter fileis usually stored in permanent memory such that it is accessible to andmay be used by a MALDI system at a later time or date.

The sample plate layout parameter file may be editable, in that it maybe accessed from storage, changed, and saved with the changes made,either with the same file name or with a different file name. A sampleplate layout parameter file is usually associated with a uniqueidentifier, such as a name or number that distinguishes it from othersample plate layout parameter files. In most embodiments, the uniqueidentifier allows the identification of a corresponding sample platethat is also labeled with a unique identifier, e.g., a barcode.

In many embodiments, the layout file for a particular sample plate maybe stored with layout files for a plurality of other sample plates(e.g., at least about 5, at least about 10, at least about 50, at leastabout 100, at least about 500, at least about 1000 or more up to about10,000 layout files). As such, a “library” or “database” of sample platelayout parameter files may be created using the subject methods, aparticular file of which may be accessed using its unique identifier.

In general, the number of parameters that may be individually specifiedin a sample plate layout parameter file varies, but is typically atleast one, including, but not limited to two, three, four, five, six ormore, about 8 or more, about 10 or more, about 15 or more, about 20 ormore, about 30 or more, about 50 or more, about 80 or more, about 100 ormore, about 200 or more, about 300 or more, about 500 or more, about 800or more, about 1000 or more, about 5000 or more, usually up to about10,000 or more, where one parameter is a piece of information about asample plate layout (e.g., the shape of a sample plate, or a position ofa sample on the sample plate, etc.).

Representative parameters include, but are not limited to:

Sample Plate Geometry Parameters

Sample plate geometry parameters include parameters for the size andshape of a sample plate that may contain samples to be ionized.Exemplary sample plate shapes include circular, square, rectangular,polygon shapes, and the like. In many embodiments, the sample plate maybe described mathematically, for example by using a mathematical formulathat describes shapes (e.g., Ghosh (1988), Comput. Vision, Graphics,Image Process. 44, 239-269). Sample plate size is the size of a MALDIsample plate. In general, the sample plate size parameters are expressedin length measurements, e.g., width A and height B (if the sample plateis rectangular), side length A (if the sample plate is square, oranother equilateral shape), diameter or radius A (if the sample plate iscircular), or other dimensional length measurements and/or formulae thatcan describe the size of the sample plate.

Sample Plate Feature Parameters

Sample plate feature parameters include parameters for the size, shapeand position of a sample on a sample plate. In the context of thisinvention, the phrases “sample plate feature parameter” and “samplefeature parameter” have the same meaning and are used interchangeably.

A sample position is the position of a sample on a sample plate, usuallyexpressed in length measurements, e.g., vertical distance X andhorizontal distance Y from an arbitrary reference position on the sampleplate. An arbitrary reference position on the sample plate may be, forexample, one corner of a sample plate, or a marked (e.g., notched)position of a sample plate, etc. In general the sample position may bemeasured in any suitable units of length measurement, for example, cm,mm, or motor step units. In many embodiments, particularly if the samplehas a simple shape (e.g., a circle, rectangle, square, etc.) the centerof a sample may be used to measure the sample position. In otherembodiments, particularly if the sample does not have a simple shape(e.g., is a polygon), the sample position may be measured from asuitable feature of the shape, such as the top of the shape, a suitablecorner, or the bottom of the shape.

A sample shape is the shape of a sample on a sample plate. Exemplarysample shapes include circular, square, rectangular, elongated circle,polygon etc, and, other shapes that can be described mathematically(e.g., Ghosh (1988), Comput. Vision, Graphics, Image Process. 44,239-269). In certain embodiments, the sample shape is defined using aseries of positions relative to an arbitrary position on the sampleplate. For example, a sample may be defined by the position of itscorners, relative to an arbitrary position.

A sample size is the size of a sample on a sample plate. In general,sample size parameters are expressed in length measurements, e.g., widthA and height B (if the sample is rectangular), width A (if the sample issquare, or another equilateral shape), diameter or radius A (if thesample is circular), or other length measurements and/or formulae thatcan describe the size of the sample.

For many samples, the size, shape, and position may be described byspecifying positional information for certain features of the sample,e.g., corners of the sample, relative to an arbitrary reference positionon the sample plate, etc. For example, if the sample is a square,rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, star or any other shape or polygoncomprising approximately straight edges and corners, the sample size,shape and position may be described by defining the positions of thecorners of the sample shape in relation to an arbitrary referenceposition on the sample plate. Exemplary sample plates are shown inFIG. 1. Sample plates may be square or rectangular 11, 12, oval orcircular 13, 14, or more complicated shaped 15, 16 sample plates.Samples, represented by the smaller shapes 17 within plates 11-16, maybe simple circles, or complicated shapes (shown in sample plate 16). Thelayouts of sample plates containing samples with irregular shapes, suchas, e.g., linear or non-linear shapes, such as those described in FIGS.3A and 3B, may also be specified using the subject methods.

In certain embodiments, a single sample plate may contain samples ofdiffering size or shape, and the samples may occupy arbitrary positionsthat are not geometrically aligned (e.g., not all in a line or followingany pattern). For example, sample plate parameters may indicate thatthere are a number of, e.g., 1 or more, 2 or more, about 5, about 10 ormore, about 20 or more, about 50 or more, about 100 or more, about 500or more, about 1000 or more, usually up to about 5000 samples ofdiffering size or shape on a sample plate. In certain embodiments, eachsample has a different size and/or shape.

In certain embodiments, a sample plate may contain one or more sampleshaving non-geometrical shapes. Exemplary sample plates are shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B, where plates (shown by the rectangle in FIG. 3A and thecircle in FIG. 3B) contain linear (FIG. 3A) or curved (FIG. 3B) samples.

Shapes, sizes and positions of objects may generally be described byKepler software, and, in many embodiments, the objects are describedusing Cartesian coordinates for identifying specific areas on an imagecorresponding to the sample plate. X, Y coordinates, measured from areference point, e.g., a reference point of a sample plate or an ionsource, are typically used. In other exemplary embodiments polarcoordinates r and θ may be used. Any convenient coordinate system may beused.

For samples that are three dimensional in shape, the sample plateparameter file may also contain parameters relating to the verticalposition of a sample above the surface of a sample plate.

Sample plate layout parameter files may also contain informationregarding any actual laser shooting pattern that was previously used insample analysis on the plate (e.g., specific plate geometry coordinatesused in laser positioning, number of laser shots/position, approximatediameter of laser image, etc.). This information may be used to, forexample, draw a schematic of a laser shooting pattern atop an image ofthe target in a graphical user interface or to direct laser positioningduring sample re-analysis, etc.

Specifying the Layout of a Sample Plate

A file of sample plate layout parameters may be created using a varietyof means. Exemplary means include: a) manually entering sample platelayout parameters using a graphical user interface showing a digitalimage of a sample plate, b) automatically entering sample plate layoutparameters by processing of an image of a sample plate using an imageprocessing program, c) manually entering text to create a file de novo,and d) manually or automatically modifying an pre-existing sample platelayout parameter file.

In many embodiments, a sample plate layout parameter file (i.e., alayout file) is created in a remote location to a MALDI ion source(e.g., a separate workstation) and saved onto a computer readable mediumthat is accessible by the processors of the MALDI ion source. In certainother embodiments, the file is created using a workstation that is partof a MALDI system comprising a MALDI ion source. As noted above, thelayout file is usually created and stored on computer readable mediumprior to placement of a MALDI sample plate in a MALDI ion source, and,as such, the file may be created immediately prior, or at least aboutone minute, one hour, one day, one week or even at least one month or atleast one year prior to its placement into the MALDI ion source.

In many embodiments, a set of sample plate parameters is specified andthe sample plate format parameter set is saved and accessibly stored ina database or library of sample plate format parameter files. A file isusually associated with the sample plate to which it corresponds bymeans of a unique name, such as a bar-code number, that is associatedwith the sample plate. As such, layout files for a plurality of samplesplates (e.g., at least two plates) may be created and saved before thefirst plate of the plurality is placed in the MALDI ion source. Sampleplate format parameters may be retrieved from the library, convertedinto an image, and edited if a non-corresponding but similar sampleplate is to be ionized.

As mentioned above, sample plate layout may be specified using a numberof methods. For example, sample plate parameters may be determined denovo, or sample plate parameters from an previously saved file may bemodified and saved as a new file. Exemplary methods for specifying thelayout of a MALDI sample plate may be done automatically using imageprocessing and analysis, or may be done manually or semi-manually usinga graphical user interface or by a text editor. These methods may beused to modify a previously stored parameter file, create a newparameter file, or confirm that a previously stored parameter file issuitable for use. In some embodiments in which a previously saved fileis modified, the saved parameters are converted into an image, the imagesuperimposed onto an image for an uncharacterized sample plate, and theparameters modified using a graphical user interface.

In some embodiments, the layout of a MALDI sample plate is determinedusing a sample plate layout-providing program. Such a program analyzes adigital image of a sample plate and determines the parameters for thesample plate. In one embodiment, a digital image of a sample plate ismade with a camera and optionally saved as, for example, a TIFF, GIF, orJPEG file. The image of the sample plate is then processed to determineits parameters. In one embodiment, the sample plate geometry parametersare determined by processing a digital image of a sample plate that isplaced on a light box such that the perimeter of the sample plate can beeasily determined. Similarly, sample plate feature parameters may bedetermined by processing a digital image of a sample plate that isilluminated from the side such that samples are contrasted from thesample plate.

In other embodiments, a set of sample plate parameters is created usinga graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI usually provides an image of asample plate, e.g., a digital representation of a sample plate, or aschematic representation of a sample plate that may be utilized indetermining sample plate format parameters. In general, the GUI displaysan image of at least a portion of a sample plate, and allows a user toset parameters for the sample plate by selecting areas of the image.

The image shown in a subject GUI is usually that of a sample plate to beionized. The image may be a digital image of the plate, ideally showingthe perimeter of the samples on the plate. In many embodiments, thedigital image of the sample plate is obtained from a side-illuminatedsample plate in which the areas of sample are visible by virtue of theirshadow or opaqueness.

The GUI allows a user to set sample plate parameters by selecting areasor positions on the image of the sample plate. After the areas areselected, the selected areas are converted into sample plate parametersthat positionally correspond to the selected areas. In other words, theareas selected through the GUI are converted into sample plateparameters that direct a laser to positions on a sample plate thatcorrespond to the selected areas.

In many embodiments, the GUI allows a user to view a sample plate imageand superimpose editable shapes on the image. Computer programs fordrawing shapes are well known in the art, e.g., Adobe Photoshop®, AdobeIllustrators, Macromedia Freehand®, and Corel Draw®, and the generalconcepts for drawing shapes (e.g., “mousing”, “rubber-banding”, tracingan object, etc.) may be adapted from these programs, and others, such asPaintShop PRO® from JASC (see www.jasc.com). In exemplary embodiments,the GUI application is written in JAVA 2D (see the world wide website ofSun Microsystems at java.sun.com/products/java-media/2D/). Such a toolallows the programmer to efficiently implement a 2D drawing program withmouse action. In another exemplary embodiments, C++ and the librariesfrom wxWindows (see the world wide web of wxWindows at wxWindows.org)are used. A user generally draws a shape corresponding to the perimeterof the sample plate, or the perimeter of the shape of a sample to beionized, superimposed onto the image of the sample plate. For example, auser may “zoom in and out” of the image, and navigate around the imageto view an image of a sample in detail. A sample for ionization may beparameterized by drawing its perimeter, or drawing a shape interior toits perimeter using the GUI. In most embodiments, selection of a samplefor ionization involves a placing a cursor over the sample area using adevice that controls movement of the cursor, e.g., a mouse, andindicating that that the curser is over a suitable sample, e.g., byclicking a button on the mouse, pressing a “return” button, or the like.In some embodiments, the cursor may be used to draw a shape, e.g., acircle, square, polygon, freehand shape etc. Once drawn, the shape maybe further positioned and edited such that it corresponds in size, shapeand position to a sample for ionization.

After the coordinates of a sample plate and at least one sample havebeen determined, the coordinates of the sample are used to create asample plate layout parameter file, which is stored on computer readablemedia.

In exemplary embodiments, a sample plate is retrieved from a samplestorage area using a robot arm, and placed in a sample plate viewingarea, that, in some embodiments, is integrated with a MALDI system,where the sample plate parameters are determined programmatically, and afile containing the parameters is created and saved. Alternatively, animage of a sample plate containing samples to be ionized is selected andopened to become viewable on a computer monitor. A user, using a mouseand keyboard, clicks on the corners of the plate to define the sampleplate geometry parameters. A user may navigate to a sample on the sampleplate image, and zoom in. Once a sample is viewed at a suitablemagnification, a sample area is selected by moving a cursor over thesample image at a position corresponding to the sample. The sample maybe selected by, for example, clicking a mouse button or pressing abutton on the keyboard or screen to alter the cursor into a shapedrawing cursor and drawing a “freehand” outline of the sample, or acircle, square, rectangle, etc., which can be suitably moved, and editeduntil a superimposed shape corresponding to the sample perimeter hasbeen drawn. These sample perimeters delineate the samples for ionizationand indicate the size, shape and position of the samples on a plate. Aplurality of samples may be outlined in such a manner, and the outlinesmay be converted into a sample plate parameter set for the sample plate.Once the sample plate parameters are determined, a file containing theparameters is created and stored.

In certain embodiments, sample plate parameter files may be producedutilizing the coordinates used by a device that placed the samples onthe sample plate. For example, if samples were deposited onto thesurface of a sample plate using a device for depositing samples, such asa spotting device or any other device that can deposit a sample on asample plate, coordinates used for depositing a sample on the plate maybe used as a sample plate parameter. In certain embodiments, therefore,a sample plate parameter may be derived from the coordinates used by asample depositing device. In one embodiment, the sample depositingdevice is a liquid chromatography device, and the sample is deposited asa trace on the surface of a suitable sample plate.

In certain embodiments, sample plate parameters may use information thatis manually extracted from the digital image of a sample plate. Incertain embodiments, a user may instruct a digital camera that, in someembodiments, may be associated with a MALDI system, to digitallyphotograph a sample plate so that the sample plate can be parameterizedusing a GUI, as described above.

In many embodiments, a file of sample plate parameters may be saved in asample plate parameter set library, such that it may be retrieved andused at a later time or date. As mentioned above, sample plate parameterfiles in a library may be associated with a unique sample plateidentifier that corresponds to an individual sample plate. By selectingor typing in a unique sample plate identifier, a set of sample plateparameters may be selected from a library of sample plate parametersets.

As mentioned above, information stored in MALDI plate layout parameterfiles may be combined with other stored information regarding a sampleor a sample plate to provide an improved method for positioning a samplewith respect to a laser beam. In certain embodiments, however, the filesmay be used without any other information in order to position a sampleon a MALDI sample plate in a laser beam to ionize the sample. Exemplaryembodiments of the invention are provided below.

Methods for Positioning an Area on a Sample Plate in a Laser Beam

The invention provides methods of positioning a selected area, e.g., atleast a portion of a sample, on a MALDI sample plate relative to a laserbeam such that the area is positioned in the laser beam. In general, themethods involve placing a MALDI sample plate in a MALDI ion source,accessing a subject layout file for the sample plate, and moving thesample plate relative to the laser beam such that the selected area ispositioned in the beam, according to the layout parameters stored in thesubject layout file. In most embodiments, a MALDI sample plate for MALDIanalysis is selected, and a subject layout file for the selected sampleplate is accessed by a MALDI ion source. Using the parameters stored inthe layout file, the application software of the MALDI ion source can,for example, control stepper motors or motor servers to place a selectedposition on the plate, usually corresponding to a sample, in the laserbeam. The positioning of a sample in the laser beam is usually achievedby moving the sample plate or the laser beam (e.g., by moving the lasersource, or changing the path of the laser beam using mirrors, lenses orother optical components) such that the sample is positioned in thelaser beam.

Generally, the sample plate or laser beam is moved in X and Y (or othercoordinate) directions corresponding to the planar surface of the sampleplate. In certain embodiments, where information about the Z axis (e.g.,the height of the sample in relation to a planar surface of a sampleplate) is stored in the layout file, the focus of the laser beam may beadjusted such that the sample is present at the focal plane of the laserbeam. Once positioned, the laser beam is usually fired to facilitateionization of the sample.

In the subject methods, a layout file is usually chosen from a libraryof layout files e.g., from a database (e.g., a text document, aspreadsheet, a workbook etc), or a collection of text files (e.g., XMLfiles, etc.). In certain embodiments, a file path is entered into aMALDI user interface to retrieve a file, or a file path may be selectedmanually or automatically. As discussed above, the layout file for asample plate may be identified using a unique identifier thatcorresponds to a sample plate. The layout file may be retrieved bymanually typing the number into a user MALDI user interface orautomatically reading the number from a plate using a barcode reader,either an external barcode reader, or a barcode reader that is integralto the MALDI ion source. In many embodiments, once a suitable layoutfile is selected, the user may accept the layout file.

The methods described above may be used for consecutively positioningmore than one arbitrary area on a sample plate, e.g., for consecutivelypositioning more than one arbitrary sample, or more than one arbitraryarea within a sample, in a laser beam. For example, a user mayarbitrarily select that more than one (e.g., 2 or more, about 3 or more,about 5 or more, about 8 or more, about 10 or more, about 15 or more,about 20 or more, about 25 or more, about 30 or more, about 50 or more,about 80 or more, about 100 or more, about 200 or more, about 500 ormore, about 1000 or more, about 5000 or more, usually up to about10,000) arbitrary areas of a sample plate (e.g., corresponding tosamples or non-overlapping areas of a sample) for positioning. Forexample, a user may select that three independent samples, three areasof a circular sample, or 100 areas of a linear sample, such as thatshown in FIG. 3A or FIG. 3B, for positioning. In these embodiments, asample plate is moved relative to a laser beam such that a selectedposition of the sample plate is positioned in the laser beam accordingto the information stored in layout file for the sample plate. Ifanother arbitrary area of the sample plate is to be positioned, thesample plate is then moved relative to a laser beam such that the secondarbitrary position of the sample plate is positioned in the laser beamaccording to the information stored in the same layout file.

In certain embodiments, the area of a sample defined by a sample platelayout file may be significantly larger than the area of the laser beam.In such embodiments, a laser beam may be directed to at least one areaof a sample that is randomly chosen, or at least one predetermined areawithin a sample, such as, for example, areas close to the center, closeto an edge of the sample or at particular crystals in the sample.

The subject methods may be used in combination with other information todirect a laser beam to a particular position in a sample. As such, thesubject methods may be used in a two-step method for directing a laserbeam to a sample: the first step, described herein, creates a sampleplate parameter file that provides the position, size and shape of asample perimeter of sample on a sample plate, and the second stepdetermines a particular position within the sample perimeter that is tobe ionized. In other words, the subject methods may be used to create afile that defines the layout of a sample plate. This file may be used todirect a laser to a sample plate, or used in combination with othermethods to direct a laser beam to a particular position within thesample.

In certain embodiments, not all samples of a sample plate are ionized.The selection of which samples to be ionized on a sample plate may bedone using the GUI, or by other means, e.g., assessment of morphology,presence or absence of particular optical or spectroscopic properties.

Methods for Ionizing a Sample

The invention provides methods for operating a MALDI ion source. Ingeneral, the methods involve entering sample plate layout parametersinto a computer readable file prior to installation of a MALDI sampleplate in the MALDI ion source, positioning the sample plate using thesample plate parameters such that a sample on the plate is in a laserbeam, and firing a laser beam at the sample to effect ionization of thesample.

The methods are useful for ionizing a plurality of arbitrarilypositioned samples on a sample plate. In many embodiments, once a sampleplate layout parameter file has been created and stored, a user mayarbitrarily select a plurality of samples to be ionized, and theselected plurality of samples are consecutively ionized using theinformation provided in the stored sample plate layout parameter file.

The methods provide for automated ionization of a plurality of samples.In certain embodiments, a sample plate is chosen and a sample platelayout parameter file is produced and saved using an image analysisprogram, as described above. After the plate layout parameter file issaved, the plate is then loaded into a MALDI ion source, and a pluralityof samples that may or may not be selected by a user, are ionized. Suchautomatic methods may be facilitated by a robotic arm that is integratedwith the MALDI ion source, that may move a barcoded sample plate from asample storage area to a sample plate viewing area where an image of thesample is generated and a plate layout file is created and saved, andthen to a MALDI ion source where ionization occurs according to theinformation provided in the plate layout file.

In certain other embodiments, the methods may be used in protocols forionizing samples from plates of differing formats using a single MALDIion source. In these embodiments, a plurality of plates which alreadyhave corresponding plate layout files are stored in a storage area. Theplates are transferred to a MALDI ion source and samples on the sampleplate are ionized. Once selected samples have been ionized, the sampleplate is transferred out of the MALDI ion source and the process isrepeated with a different sample plate. In certain embodiments, wherethe plurality of plates do not have corresponding plate layout files,prior to their transfer to the MALDI ion source, a sample plate layoutparameter file is made and stored for the plate.

To facilitate automated ionization, the MALDI ion source may betherefore integrated with a barcode reader and/or camera and/or digitalimage processor in order to facilitate the creation of sample platelayout files. These embodiments allow “hands-free” ionization of samplesfrom a plurality of sample plates with different formats.

The subject methods find use in ionizing sample on any type of sampleplate. In particular, the subject methods find use in ionizing sample onsample plates that have samples at known positions, e.g., “anchor”sample plates that have hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic coatings (see,e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,872), plates containing samples that areconcentrated (e.g., samples that are at a concentration of 10 fM orhigher), and plates containing samples that are smaller in size than thediameter of an ionizing laser beam. In certain embodiments wherediameter of an ionization laser is smaller than the area containing asample, a laser beam may be directed to the sample at a pre-determinedposition within the sample area, directed to a position within thesample area randomly, directed to a position within the sample chosen bya user (e.g., by eye) or pointed at a position within the sample areausing other means, for example. In general, once sample plate parametersare determined, the number and direction of laser shots is usuallydetermined using a method file. While the subject methods, alone, finduse in directing a laser beam to a sample on a sample plate forionization of the sample, the subject methods may also be combined withother methods in order to direct a laser beam to a particular positionwithin a sample.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown in the flow chartillustrated in FIG. 2. All steps of the method shown in FIG. 2 may beperformed automatically, or manually, using the methodology outlinedabove. Sample selection 25 is usually optional, or may be performed atany time after sample plate selection and prior to ionization of asample. Referring to FIG. 2, a sample plate is selected 21, and a uniqueidentifier of the sample plate is used to query a computer readablemedium to determine if a layout file is already available 22 for thesample plate. If a layout file for the sample plate is available thesample plate is placed in a MALDI source and the layout file for thefile is accessed 23. If a layout file for the sample plate is notavailable, a layout file is created and stored 24 according to themethods described in detail above. Once a layout file is created andstored, the sample plate is placed in a MALDI source and the layout filefor the file is accessed 23. Samples to be ionized may be selected 25 atthis point, however, as mentioned above, this step may be done at adifferent time. After the layout file is accessed, a laser beam ispositioned relative to a sample on the sample plate, and at least partof the sample is ionized according to the information provided in thelayout file 26. After a sample is ionized, the system determines whetheranother sample on the sample plate is to be ionized 27. If anothersample on the sample plate is to be ionized, the other sample is ionizedaccording to the information provided in the layout file 26. If there isno other sample to be ionized, the method is terminated. Using the abovemethodology, a plurality of samples of a sample plate may be ionized,and, as one of skill in the art would recognize, when used incombination with robots and suitable barcode readers, the above methodscould be used to ionize samples on a plurality of sample plates.

Computer-Readable Media

Programming according to the present invention can be recorded oncomputer readable media, e.g., any medium that can be read and accesseddirectly by a computer. Such media include, but are not limited to:magnetic storage media, such as floppy discs, hard disc storage medium,and magnetic tape; optical storage media such as CD-ROM; electricalstorage media such as RAM and ROM; and hybrids of these categories suchas magnetic/optical storage media. One of skill in the art can readilyappreciate how any of the presently known computer readable mediums canbe used to create a manufacture that includes a recording of the presentprogramming/algorithms for carrying out the above described methodology.

Suitable MALDI ion sources for ionizing a sample on a sample plateemploying the above methods and computer readable media are described inthe next section.

MALDI Ion Sources

Also provided by the subject invention are MALDI ion sources that areprogrammed to access MALDI sample plate layout files and position anarea of a sample plate relative to a laser beam according to theinformation stored in the layout file. Representative MALDI ion sourcesinclude those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,508,986; 6,423,966;6,303,298; 6,287,872; 6,265,715; 6,175,112; 6,111,251; 5,886,345;5,869,830; 5,854,486; 5,808,300; 5,777,324; 5,770,272; 5,716,825;RE37,485; 5,498,545; 6,027,942; 5,861,623; 5,821,063; 5,808,300;5,969,350; 6,488,065; 6,353,423; 6,221,626; 5,827,659 and 5,860,240 and5,705,813—the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Several commercially available MALDI ion sources may be adapted ormodified to perform the subject methods. Examples of those apparatusesare included in the following products: DYNAMO® (BioMolecularInstruments), REFLEX III®, BIFLEX III® and PROFLEX III® (BrukerDaltonics, Santa Fe, N. Mex.), PROTEINCHIP READER® (CiphergenBioSystems, Fremont, Calif.), models RTOF260 and LTOF 160 (Comstock, OakRidge, Tenn.), GSG FUTURE (GSG Analytical Instruments, Germany), modelR-500 TOFMS (Kore Technology, Ely, UK), KOMPACT DISCOVERY®, KOMPACTSEQ®, KOMPACT ALPHA® AND KOMPACT PROBE® (Kratos Technology, ManchesterUK), models TOFSPEC-2E (Micromass, Cary, N.C.), and VOYAGER DE®, VOYAGERDET PRO®, VOYAGER DE STR®, PROTEOMICS SOLUTION 1® (PE Biosystems, FosterCity, Calif.) and the Agilent (Palo Alto, Calif.) G1972A AP-MALDI sourcecoupled to Agilent G240DA LC/MSD Ion Trap mass spectrometer.

In addition to the programming as described above, MALDI ion sources forperforming the subject methods may have means for holding sample platesof differing shapes or sizes. In one embodiment, an adjustable clip on asample plate platform may engage a sample plate and hold it a certainposition in the MALDI ion source during ionization. Suitable sampleplate clips may be adapted from microscopy arts, and may involve atleast one clip that is spring loaded and that engages at least one partof the sample plate.

A suitable sample plate clip shown in FIG. 4A, which shows a sampleplate platform 5 containing a raised sample plate stop 1 and two springloaded sample clips 2. The springs force the clips in the direction ofthe arrows. FIGS. 4B and 4C show circular and rectangular sample platesbeing held in position against the sample plate stop 1, respectively.Suitable sample plate clips may also be identified in U.S. Pat. No.4,620,776.

One of skill in the art would recognize that several other means couldbe used to secure a sample plate in a MALDI ion source, includingmagnets, positive or negative air pressure, adjustable screws, lockingnuts, and the like.

In one embodiment, a MALDI ion source is integrated with a device suchas a robot that may remove a sample plate from a subject MALDI ionsource and/or transfer a sample plate from a sample plate storagefacility into the MALDI ion source. In certain embodiments, a barcodereader may be integrated into the MALDI ion source, and the barcodereader may read a barcode associated with the sample plate in order toidentify a file that provides sample plate parameters from a sampleplate parameter file library. In order to facilitate the transfer ofsample plates, the sample plates may be held in a suitable sample plateplatform while in the sample plate storage facility, and, as such, arobot may remove and add platforms containing sample plates to the MALDIion source.

The MALDI ion source may, in some embodiments, be integrated with aMALDI sample plate viewing area where a MALDI sample plate may betransferred, and an image of the plate generated in order to facilitatethe creation and storage of a plate layout file, as discussed above.

Kits

Kits for use in connection with the subject invention may also beprovided. Such kits include at least a computer readable mediumincluding programming for creating and storing a MALDI sample platelayout parameter file, as discussed above and/or instructions foroperating a MALDI ion source according to the stored file. Theinstructions may include installation or setup directions. Theinstructions may include directions for use of the invention withoptions or combinations of options as described above. In certainembodiments, the instructions include both types of information. Inaddition to the programming and instructions, the kits may also includea library of different plate layout parameter files (e.g., more than 2,more than about 5, more than about 10, more than about 50, more thanabout 100, more than about 500, more than about 1000, usually up toabout 10,000 plate parameter sets), and one or more reference sampleplates, e.g., two or more reference sample plates of differing sampleplate format for use in testing a MALDI ion source after softwareinstallation.

Providing the software and instructions as a kit may serve a number ofpurposes. The combination may be packaged and purchased as a means ofupgrading an existing scanner. Alternately, the combination may beprovided in connection with a new scanner in which the software ispreloaded on the same. In which case, the instructions will serve as areference manual (or a part thereof) and the computer readable medium asa backup copy to the preloaded utility.

The instructions are generally recorded on a suitable recording medium.For example, the instructions may be printed on a substrate, such aspaper or plastic, etc. As such, the instructions may be present in thekits as a package insert, in the labeling of the container of the kit orcomponents thereof (i.e., associated with the packaging orsubpackaging), etc. In other embodiments, the instructions are presentas an electronic storage data file present on a suitable computerreadable storage medium, e.g., CD-ROM, diskette, etc, including the samemedium on which the program is presented.

In yet other embodiments, the instructions are not themselves present inthe kit, but means for obtaining the instructions from a remote source,e.g., via the Internet, are provided. An example of this embodiment is akit that includes a web address where the instructions can be viewedand/or from which the instructions can be downloaded. Conversely, meansmay be provided for obtaining the subject programming from a remotesource, such as by providing a web address. Still further, the kit maybe one in which both the instructions and software are obtained ordownloaded from a remote source, as in the Internet or world wide web.Some form of access security or identification protocol may be used tolimit access to those entitled to use the subject invention. As with theinstructions, the means for obtaining the instructions and/orprogramming is generally recorded on a suitable recording medium.

Systems

Also provided by the subject invention are systems for use in practicingthe subject methods. The subject systems include a MALDI ion source forperforming the methods as described above. In certain embodiments, thesubject systems may further include reagents employed in analyte massdetermination protocols, a mass spectrometer TOF-MS, a robot fortransferring sample plates, a MALDI plate viewing area, a barcodereader, a digital camera, a digital image processor, a computer systemfor controlling and/or monitoring the subject MALDI system, and acomputer system for analyzing data produced by the ion detector.

In certain embodiments, the system is a system for positioning a MALDIsample plate in a MALDI ion source. In general, the system comprises a)a computer readable file having stored sample plate layout parameters,the file being stored in a computer readable medium prior to placementof the MALDI sample plate in the MALDI ion source; and b) means forpositioning the MALDI sample plate using information in said computerreadable file after placement of the MALDI sample plate in the MALDI ionsource.

Utility

The subject methods and apparatus find use in a of variety applications,where such applications are generally analyte abundance determinationapplications in which the presence and abundance of at least oneparticular analyte in a sample is determined. Protocols for carrying outMALDI assays are well known to those of skill in the art and need not bedescribed in great detail here. Generally, samples to be investigatedare prepared and placed on a sample plate. A laser beam is focused onthe sample, the energy of the laser beam causes a plume of matrixfragments and ions to form from the sample, and ions from the plume areintroduced into a detector, usually a mass spectrometer, for ionidentification and measurement.

The subject methods find exemplary utility in, for example, makingmeasurements of analytes that are present on sample plates of differentsizes, shapes, and formats.

The subject methods find particular use with MALDI protocols. MALDIprotocols employed with the subject methods may vary in detail dependingon the analyte to be analyzed, the particular MALDI protocol employed,etc., where MALDI protocols include, but are not limited to, AP-MALDIand vacuum MALDI protocols. However, common to all MALDI protocols isthe preparation of a mixture that includes the analyte of interest and amatrix.

A matrix is typically a small organic, volatile compound with certainproperties that facilitate the performance of MALDI, e.g., the lightabsorption spectrum of the matrix crystals overlaps the frequency of thelaser pulse being used, the intrinsic reactivity of the matrix materialwith the analyte must be suitable, the matrix material must demonstrateadequate photostability in the presence of the laser pulse, thevolatility and affinity for the analyte must be suitable, etc.Accordingly, a matrix is selected based on a variety of factors such asthe analyte of interest (type, size, etc.), etc. Examples of matricesinclude, but are not limited to, sinapinic acid (SA);alpha-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (HCCA); 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid(DHB); 3-hydroxypicolinic acid (HPA); 2′,4′,6′-trihydroxyacetophenone;and dithranol. The matrix is typically dissolved in a suitable solventthat is selected, at least in part, so that it is miscible with theanalyte solvent. For example, in the analysis of peptides/proteins HCCAand SA work best with ACN/0.1% TFA as solvent and in the analysis ofoligonucleotides HPA and ACN/H₂O may be employed.

Accordingly, after the appropriate matrix is selected, the analytes arethoroughly mixed or suspended in the matrix at a suitable ratio toprovide a sample that includes the analyte matrix mixture. In manyembodiments, saturated solutions of the matrix are thoroughly mixed withdilute solutions (e.g., nmole/μL to fmole/μL) of the analyte in asuitable ratio. In certain embodiments, for example when the analyte isa protein, higher concentrations may be required (e.g., 0.1 mmole/μL toabout 1 mmol/μL). The exact ratio of the matrix to sample will vary, buttypically ranges from about 1:1 to about 20:1 or more, usually in therange of about 1:1 to about 10:1. In certain embodiments, co-matrices ormatrix additives may be added to the mixture to enhance the quality ofthe MALDI process, e.g., by increasing ion yields; decreasing and/orincreasing fragmentation; increasing the homogeneity of thematrix/analyte; decreasing cationization; increasing sample-to-samplereproducibility; etc. The amount of analyte fragment/matrix mixturepresent in each fluid retaining structure may vary depending on the typeof particular analyte, the particular MALDI protocol employed, etc.Typically, about 0.1 μL to about 10 μL or more of the analytefragment/matrix mixture is present in each fluid retaining structure, incertain embodiments from about 0.1 μL to about 5 μL and in certainembodiments from about 0.1 μL to about 2 μL of the analytefragment/matrix mixture is present in each fluid retaining structure. Incertain embodiments, calibration standards may be added to one or morefluid retaining structures, e.g., to dynamically calibrate a MALDIassociated device such as a mass spectrometer, and/or controls such aspositive and/or negative controls may also be employed.

Next, the analyte matrix mixture may be dried resulting in a soliddeposit of analyte-doped matrix crystals in a sample plate or themixture may be maintained in fluid form on the sample plate such thatdesorption from aqueous solutions may be employed (see for example Laikoet al. describing such using an IR laser in [J. of the American Societyfor Mass Spectrometry, published online Feb. 14, 2002]). In a dryingprotocol, the matrix molecules precipitate out of solution resultingmatrix crystals. Drying may be accomplished using any convenient methodsuch as air drying (i.e., room temperature drying), vacuum drying, etc.

In general, in the performance of MALDI, laser energy is directed to theone or more analyte matrix mixtures retained in a sample plate. Nitrogenlasers operating at 337 nm are the most common illumination sources, assuch radiation from lasers is usually well absorbed by many matrices.However, other lasers may also be employed, e.g., other UV and IRlasers. Upon laser irradiation, the matrix and analyte molecules aredesorbed and ionized. Either transmission or reflection geometry may beemployed in accordance with the subject methods. In reflection geometry,typically a laser illuminates the sample or analyte on the front side ofthe substrate such that laser illumination takes place on the same sideof the substrate as ion extraction, e.g., the front of an opaquesubstrate surface. In transmission geometry, laser illumination isaccomplished through the back side of the substrate, i.e., illuminatinga sample from behind (see for example Galicia et al., AnalyticalChemistry, vol. 74, 1891-1895 (2002)). The use of transmission geometryenables the use of samples such as tissues and cells.

Once desorbed and ionized, the ions may be analyzed. As described above,a variety of analysis apparatus and methods for analyzingMALDI-generated ions are known in the art and may be employed inaccordance with the subject invention. In certain embodiments, thesubject methods include analyzing the ions provided by theabove-described MALDI protocol using a mass spectrometer. In furtherdescribing the subject invention, time-of-flight mass spectrometer(“TOF-MS”) and ion trap mass spectrometers are used for exemplarypurposes only and are in no way intended to limit the scope of thesubject invention.

Accordingly, in certain embodiments, a TOF-MS (or an ion trap massspectrometer or the like) is operatively coupled to the MALDI ion sourceused to ionize the analyte. Once ionized, the ions are electrostaticallyaccelerated and transferred to a flight-tube that is free ofelectrostatic fields. Ions are separated from each other in the flighttube based on their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratios. A detector detects theions and records the time it takes for each ion to arrive at thedetector (at the end of the flight tube) as well as the signal intensityof each species of ion, such that lighter ions exit the flight tubefirst, followed by the heavier ions in increasing order ofmass-to-charge ratio (i.e., ions with a larger mass travel at a slowervelocity and therefore arrive at the detector after smaller mass ions).In this manner, a mass spectrum may be provided that yields informationabout the ions such as concentration and structural information.

In certain embodiments, the subject methods include a step oftransmitting data, e.g., mass spectrum data, from the above-describedmethods to a data processor which may, in some embodiments, be at aremote location.

The following examples are offered by way of illustration and not by anyway of limitation.

EXPERIMENTAL

The following examples are put forth so as to provide those of ordinaryskill in the art with a description of how to make and use someembodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit thescope of what the inventors regard as their invention.

Example 1 Plate Geometry Configuration (PGC) Files

Besides defining individual methods for ionization (e.g., the pattern oflaser shooting or the number of laser shots) for each sample feature(e.g., a spot) of a MALDI plate, the user can also define a layout foreach individual plate. A file could define/specify such a layout (calleda plate-geometry-configuration file, or PGC file). Such a file couldalso be created/edited or viewed by a software component with agraphical user interface which would allow the user to define/edit thelayout through dragging/moving a pointing device (e.g., a mouse pointer)following the concepts for a drawing program. Such PGC files may not behuman readable. For example, a user may draw a picture of a sample MALDIplate which is converted into a PGC file using the system, or a user mayenter numerical coordinates corresponding to the configuration of asample plate. A library with predefined PGC files for standard plateconfigurations may be provided. Such a library would allow a user toedit pre-existing PGC files and adjust them for different plategeometries and different sample feature locations.

The following is an exemplary tagged ASCII-file (similar to XML)implementation for a PGC-file, which may be generated programmaticallyand may be human readable. In this example, the PGC file describes theposition of three samples on a sample plate, using “X” and “Y”coordinates. The first and third sample feature are spots that arecircular in shape. The second sample feature is rectangular. Rectangularsample feature geometries are possible when using plates withrectangular depressions or rectangular shaped “anchor” plates that havehydrophobic and hydrophilic coatings (see U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,872).

<MALDI_PLATE_DEFINITION> <MALDI_PLATE_TITLE>PGC-file for AP MALDI plate02-23-1233</MALDI_PLATE_TITLE> <MALDI_PLATE_AUTHOR>Name ofAuthor</MALDI_PLATE_AUTHOR><MALDI_PLATE_DATE>01-01-2002</MALDI_PLATE_DATE><MALDI_PLATE_UNITS>mm</MALDI_PLATE_UNITS><MALDI_PLATE_PLATE_LENGTH>20.0</MALDI_PLATE_PLATE_LENGTH><MALDI_PLATE_PLATE_HEIGHT>35.0</MALDI_PLATE_PLATE_HEIGHT><MALDI_PLATE_NUM_SPOTS_PER_PLATE>3</MALDI_PLATE_NUM_SPOTS_PER_PLATE><MALDI_PLATE_SEQUENCE>standard sequence</MALDI_PLATE_SEQUENCE><MALDI_PLATE_SPOT_PARAM> <MALDI_PLATE_SPOT><MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID>1</MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID><MALDI_SPOT_XPOS>5.2</MALDI_SPOT_XPOS><MALDI_SPOT_YPOS>1.3</MALDI_SPOT_YPOS><MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY>circle</MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY><MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS>2.7</MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS><MALDI_SPOT_METHOD>standard01</MALDI_SPOT_METHOD><MALDI_SPOT_COMMENT>this spot is from 123-3434</MALDI_SPOT_COMMENT></MALDI_PLATE_SPOT> <MALDI_PLATE_SPOT><MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID>2</MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID><MALDI_SPOT_XPOS>10.2</MALDI_SPOT_XPOS><MALDI_SPOT_YPOS>1.3</MALDI_SPOT_YPOS><MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY>rectangular</MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY><MALDI_SPOT_RECTX>0.5</MALDI_SPOT_RECTX><MALDI_SPOT_RECTY>0.7</MALDI_SPOT_RECTY><MALDI_SPOT_METHOD>standard02</MALDI_SPOT_METHOD> </MALDI_PLATE_SPOT><MALDI_PLATE_SPOT> <MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID>3</MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID><MALDI_SPOT_XPOS>15.2</MALDI_SPOT_XPOS><MALDI_SPOT_YPOS>1.3</MALDI_SPOT_YPOS><MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY>circle</MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY><MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS>0.7</MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS><MALDI_SPOT_METHOD>standard01</MALDI_SPOT_METHOD> </MALDI_PLATE_SPOT></MALDI_PLATE_SPOT_PARAM> </MALDI_PLATE_DEFINITION>

Different geometries of sample feature (i.e. the information storedbetween the tag called <MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY> in this example) may becaused by different shapes of indentations e.g. wells, of the plate atvarious locations. When a liquid is injected into such a well, by handor by an automated system, the crystal distribution would try to matchthe geometry of the hole. In many embodiments, no indentations orcircular indentations are used, and the invention is not limited tocircular spots.

The following shows an exemplary tagged ASCII-file (similar to XML)implementation for a PGC-file for a circular plate, which might begenerated programmatically but is still human readable. This exampleuses polar coordinates. In this example, all sample features (i.e.samples) are circular in shape.

<MALDI_PLATE_DEFINITION> <MALDI_PLATE_TITLE>PGC-file for AP MALDI plate02-23-1233</MALDI_PLATE_TITLE> <MALDI_PLATE_AUTHOR>Name ofAuthor</MALDI_PLATE_AUTHOR><MALDI_PLATE_DATE>01-01-2002</MALDI_PLATE_DATE><MALDI_PLATE_UNITS>mm</MALDI_PLATE_UNITS><MALDI_PLATE_SHAPE>nonrectangular</MALDI_PLATE_SHAPE><MALDI_PLATE_SHAPE>circular</MALDI_PLATE_SHAPE><MALDI_PLATE_PLATE_RADIUS>4.0</MALDI_PLATE_PLATE_RADIUS><MALDI_PLATE_NUM_SPOTS_PER_PLATE>2</MALDI_PLATE_NUM_SPOTS_PER_PLATE><MALDI_PLATE_SEQUENCE>standard sequence</MALDI_PLATE_SEQUENCE><MALDI_PLATE_SPOT_PARAM> <MALDI_PLATE_SPOT><MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID>1</MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID><MALDI_SPOT_RPOS>0.2</MALDI_SPOT_RPOS><MALDI_SPOT_PHIPOS>60.0</MALDI_SPOT_PHIPOS><MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY>circle</MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY><MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS>0.2</MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS><MALDI_SPOT_METHOD>standard01</MALDI_SPOT_METHOD><MALDI_SPOT_COMMENT>this spot is from 123-3434</MALDI_SPOT_COMMENT></MALDI_PLATE_SPOT> <MALDI_PLATE_SPOT><MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID>2</MALDI_SPOT_SPOTID><MALDI_SPOT_RPOS>0.8</MALDI_SPOT_RPOS><MALDI_SPOT_PHIPOS>60.0</MALDI_SPOT_PHIPOS><MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY>circle</MALDI_SPOT_GEOMETRY><MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS>0.2</MALDI_SPOT_RADIUS><MALDI_SPOT_METHOD>standard01</MALDI_SPOT_METHOD><MALDI_SPOT_COMMENT>this spot is from 123-3434</MALDI_SPOT_COMMENT></MALDI_PLATE_SPOT> </MALDI_PLATE_SPOT_PARAM> </MALDI_PLATE_DEFINITION>

<MALDI_SPOT_RPOS> and <MALDI_SPOT_PHIPOS> are the radial and angularpositions on a circular disk (polar coordinates) with its center at r=0and φ=0. In the case of an elliptical shape, one would enter thecoordinates of sample feature in elliptical coordinates. For irregularshaped plates, one would, for example, interpolate the outer edges ofthe plate by polynomial functions of sufficient degree and userectangular coordinates for spot locations on such an irregular plate.

The outline of a sample trace may be provided as a list of polygons thatform the outside boundary of the entire trace.

To support sample plates of various geometries and sizes a MALDI ionsource may also require a flexible MALDI plate holder. Such plateholders are already available for microscope slides used for compoundlight microscopy applications. A similar concept that registers certainfeatures of a given plate, such as the upper-left corner of arectangular plate or two orthogonal tangents to a circle of a circularplate, will allow an automated system to access all spots on a platethat are defined in a PGC file for the plate.

PGC files can be provided, for example, by user input via a) a graphicaluser interface, b) user input via directly editing a human readablefile, c) a computer system via digital image processing, and d) acomputer system via a library based PGC file that is selected based on aunique identifier, e.g. a barcode that is read by a barcode reader, orother system input coming from other components (such as a spotter,plate-loader, etc.).

Example 2 Mass Determination of Linear Traces

In some examples, sample features are rectangular or circular. In otherexamples the samples are elongated sample feature (or traces) that aredeposited on an AP MALDI and/or MALDI plate. This may be done byconnecting the outlet of an liquid chromatography (LC) column using adropping head positioned above a MALDI plate. The sample willcontinuously flow out of the LC column to continuously deposit a sampletogether with matrix dilution onto a plate, which is moved in such a waythat the sample/matrix mixture forms an elongated sample feature ortrace on the plate (e.g. see FIGS. 3A and 3B). The user may define thegeometry for this case. For example, the system can take a digital imageof the plate prior to processing, determine the outer edges of thetraces, and allow the user to modify the information graphically using asuitable GUI. The digital image can then be used to create a PGC file.

Once a PGC file for such a sample plate is established, several areaswithin the trace may be subjected to ionization. In many embodiments,areas at various positions in the trace of the sample are ionized (e.g.,the areas separated by e.g. 1 mm, 2 mm, 5 mm etc.) such thatrepresentative samples may be taken for the entire length of the trace.

Example 3 Mass Determination of Electrophoresed Samples

Samples of interest may be electrophoresed (1D or 2D) and transferredvia e.g. vacuum or electrophoretic blotting, either directly orindirectly to a suitable MALDI sample plate and mixed with matrix suchthat the sample is a suitable substrate for MALDI. Alternatively asample may be electrophoresed (1D or 2D) using a compound, usually apolymeric compound, that is a) suitable for electrophoresis, b)crystalizable when its temperature is lowered and/or light (e.g. UVlight) of a suitable wavelength is applied, and c) that can act as asuitable matrix for AP MALDI and/or MALDI.

Electrophoretically separated samples may be ionized and/or analyzed byan AP MALDI and/or MALDI system for MS and/or MS/MS analysis. In thiscase, the sample feature geometry, which is most likely not circular,can be captured by image processing technology and/or the user is ableto define the sample (e.g. a band or spot) size, location and geometry.A MALDI laser then is directed towards those samples.

Example 4 Graphical User Interface

FIG. 5 shows an image of a sample plate, as it could be viewed throughan graphical user interface for creating a MALDI sample plate layoutfiles. The exemplary image shows a image of a MALDI plate in the processof being parameterized. The white dots are placed by the user to definethe outer edges of the sample plate. The smaller black continuous linecircles are placed over the samples by a user after selecting thecircular shape feature for these spots. The dashed line circle has notyet been moved into the right position. Once the user accepts radius andposition, the dashed line circle will change into a continuous linecircle.

After the user is finished with entering the plate geometry, samplefeature location and shape, the computer generates an XML-like file thatrepresents the sample plate parameter set for this sample plate.

It is evident from the above results and discussion that the subjectinvention provides an important new means for scanning a substrate.Specifically, the subject invention provides a system for maintainingcorrect focus of a light source while scanning a biopolymeric array. Assuch, the subject methods and systems find use in a variety of differentapplications, including research, diagnostic and other applications.Accordingly, the present invention represents a significant contributionto the art.

All publications and patents cited in this specification are hereinincorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patentwere specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated byreference. The citation of any publication is for its disclosure priorto the filing date and should not be construed as an admission that thepresent invention is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtueof prior invention.

While the present invention has been described with reference to thespecific embodiments thereof, it should be understood by those skilledin the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may besubstituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of theinvention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation, material, composition of matter, process, processstep or steps, to the objective, spirit and scope of the presentinvention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope ofthe claims appended hereto.

1. A method of positioning a sample on a MALDI sample plate in a laserbeam, comprising: a) storing a file comprising parameters that describea perimeter of a sample on the MALDI sample plate; b) placing said MALDIsample plate in a MALDI ion source; c) accessing said stored file forsaid MALDI sample plate; and d) positioning the sample in relation tothe laser beam such that the sample is in the laser beam using saidparameters.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein positioning comprisesmoving the sample relative to the laser beam.
 3. The method of claim 1wherein positioning comprises moving the laser beam relative to thesample.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein said accessing comprises usinga barcode associated with said MALDI sample plate.
 5. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising ionizing a portion of said sample using saidlaser beam.
 6. A method for positioning a MALDI sample plate in a MALDIion source with respect to a laser beam, comprising: (a) storingparameters that describe a perimeter of a sample on said sample plate ina computer readable file; (b) placing said MALDI sample plate in theMALDI ion source; and (c) adjusting the relative position of the MALDIsample plate and the laser beam such that a selected position on saidMALDI sample plate is impacted by the laser beam; wherein said adjustingis done using the parameters of the computer readable file.
 7. Themethod of claim 6 wherein said computer readable file is created at awork station that is remote to said MALDI ion source.
 8. The method ofclaim 7 wherein said computer readable medium is accessible by saidMALDI ion source.
 9. The method of claim 6 wherein adjusting comprisesmoving the MALDI sample plate using the parameters and maintaining thelaser beam in a fixed position.
 10. The method of claim 6 whereinadjusting comprises moving the laser beam using the parameters andmaintaining the MALDI sample plate in a fixed position.
 11. A method foroperating a MALDI ion source, comprising: (a) storing sample platelayout parameters that describes a perimeter of a sample on a MALDIsample plate into a computer readable file; (b) placing said MALDIsample plate in the MALDI ion source (c) positioning the MALDI sampleplate using the sample plate layout parameters; and (d) ionizing saidsample on the MALDI sample plate with a laser beam.
 12. The method ofclaim 11, wherein steps (a), (b) and (c) are automated.
 13. The methodof claim 11, wherein said information is stored in permanent memory. 14.A method of preparing a sample, comprising: (a) depositing a sample on aMALDI sample plate; (b) creating a file comprising parameters thatdescribe a perimeter of said sample on said MALDI sample plate; and (c)storing the file on a computer readable medium wherein said creating andsaid storing are done prior to placement of said MALDI sample plate insaid MALDI ion source.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the sample isa sample trace.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the sample trace isan irregular shape.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the irregularshape is selected from liner, non-linear, and elongate.